So: What Is Contouring and Why Should You Care?

Now, on to the technique! This video by Lisa Eldridge is the absolute best on YouTube for a really natural, pretty-looking contour technique. Also? So, so easy. Click to watch it above, but pay special attention to these three key pointers.

Start soft: Eldridge builds her pigment along as she goes, so she can follow the shape clearly. Watch as she uses circular motions to sweep under the jawlines, the sides of the temples, and under the cheekbones. (Think of this area as a "3" shape, and it makes a whole lot more sense.)

Build, then buff: There's a lot of sharp-looking lines towards the middle of the tutorial, but watch as Eldridge softens them with a clean cotton pad to remove excess. (Remember when Dubroff said to blend out with a damp sponge or foundation brush? Same idea.)

Less is more: Eldridge goes to work contouring the lips, the nose, and the eyes, but Dubroff warns that all-over contouring can be a bit much for a fresh young face. Skip those steps at first, then add them at your discretion. If you're nervous that any of it is too much, Dubroff offers an easy solution: "Get two different shades of foundation," she suggests. "Focus the lighter shade in the center of the face, and the darker along the perimeter and under the cheekbones and jawline." Blend with a damp sponge to make sure there are no harsh lines, and voila—you just mastered contouring!